Elon Musk Thinks it is Highly Likely that We are all Simulations

By
Trevor English

June, 03rd 2016

Elon Musk is known for his crazy ideas and bringing what was previously thought of as science fiction. Right now, he could be the most famous billionaire in the world, and rightfully so, for his work in Tesla, SpaceX, and even the famous Hyperloop. Perhaps topping the list at the craziest ideas this man has perpetuated, he recently claimed that he thinks it is highly likely that we are living in a highly-advanced computer simulation, right now. Before you say, "he's crazy," listen to his argument below and see what you think.

So, this idea wasn't exactly Musk's own, rather it has been the talk of higher-up thinking for many years in the modern age of electronics. If you want to look a little more into the extensive scholarly arguments towards the reality that we may be living in a computer simulation, check out this scientific paper. The argument essentially goes like this:

[1] Humans are likely to advance technology to the point where lifelike computer simulations are possible following along the current trajectory;

[2] Any civilization with this possibility will likely run simulations of their evolutionary history;

[3] We are almost certainly living in a computer simulation.

Science Alert goes into great detail looking into the background of the 'simulation argument', but let's spend a little time looking into what Elon is arguing here. Following along the same line of thought, assuming those premises are true, Musk proposes two possible outcomes. Either we are living in a computer simulation, or some great event in the future will prevent humanity from creating realistic computer simulations.

Following along the advancing technological path that we are now, even if it is 10,000 years in the future, humanity is likely to gain the ability to render consciousness inside of a supercomputer. Unless you can find some way to prove that possibility impossible, then, according to Elon, we must be in a computer simulation. It really makes too much sense, so much so that it feels like something is wrong. Not only this, but humanity as a culture likes feeling unique, and like we have control over our own bodies. The idea of being a computer simulation is really scary, especially on the lines of personal faith and beliefs. All of this argument, however, has caused Elon to assert that the chances of us not living in a simulation right now to be "one in billions" according to the Independent.

So, what do you think? Is there validity to the assertion that we are likely living in a computer simulation, or that some universe ending event will occur before we garner that ability? Try not to let your brain explode. Even the biggest minds of today can't quite figure out what to think about this argument. Let us know what you think in the comments.

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